Bulgaria is adorned with relics and remnants of Roman civilization, ancient structures, churches, cathedrals and picturesque beaches. It is one of the choicest and exotic destinations in Europe, one of the favorites among tourists. Not only the beauty and aura of the countrybut also the myriad of activities fascinate the tourists to come here. From sightseeing to water sports, shopping to hiking, the list enthralling things to do in Bulgaria is never-ending.
12 Must-Try Things To Do In Bulgaria
Indulge in best of the outdoor activities in Bulgaria and make the most of your exhilarating vacation in this Balkan country. Some of the best things to do in Bulgaria are listed below.
1. Water sports in Sunny Beach
If you are a water baby and love adventure, Sunny Beach in Bulgaria is the perfect heaven for you. The sun-kissed Bulgaria beaches offer ample water adventure activities like jet ski, wake board, canoeing, parasailing, banana boat ride, and speed boat rides.
Apart from indulging in water sports, there are other things to do in Sunny Beach, Bulgaria like sunbathing and enjoying sunset cruise in the sea.
Location: Black Sea Coast, Bulgaria
Must Read: Bulgaria In Winter: 10 Things To Do To Make Your Vacation Memorable
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2. Light and sound show at Tsarevets
The medieval fort of Tsarevets talks is an important tourist attraction in Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria. People visit this place to admire the awe-inspiring structure, panoramic view from the hill top and more importantly to experience the fascinating light and sound show at the fort.
This audio-visual show, displays the history of the mighty fortress and Balkan region, its rich heritage and traditions. Featuring laser effects, chiming bells and techno music; the light and sound show at Tsarevets is one of the beautiful things to see in Bulgaria, which leaves everyone awestruck.
Location: Tsar Asen Square, 5000 Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria
Opening hours: 2 pm to 10 pm
Tickets: INR 250/person
Suggested Read: 12 Legendary Festivals In Bulgaria: Rejoice The Balkans Local Traditions
3. Skiing in Pomporovo
If you are not able to decide upon the things to do in Bulgaria in winter, then this is the place you should go. Pamporovo is a renowned ski destination in the Smolyan province of Bulgaria. Located in the heart of Rhodope Mountains, this winter sport resort has snowboarding and skiing facilities, especially for beginners.
Bulgaria is said to have the longest skiing season and enjoying winter sports here is one among the most fun activities to do in Bulgaria holiday. Ski rentals are easily available near ski runs and lift stations, located in Mechi Chal, Chepelare in Pamporovo.
Location: Smolyan Province, Bulgaria
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4. Caving in Devil’s Throat Cave
Caving is an extremely thrilling affair and one can experience the same excitement in Bulgaria too. Devil’s Throat is a spectacular limestone cave, replicating the shape of a devil’s head with waterfall gushing down through it. Set in the slopes of Rhodopes mountain, this is one of the major tourist attractions in Bulgaria.
With Trigrad River, cascading down, this cave has resulted in numerous rock formations, which facilitate thrilling spelunking- one of the exciting things to do in Bulgaria for families. Take a guided tour through the caves and hike up to the waterfall from where you can enjoy jaw dropping views of the surrounding.
Location: Gyovren, Bulgaria
5. Hiking in Rila National Park
For all those adventure freaks; Rila National Park in Bulgaria seems to be a great hiking spot for them. Set in the mountain ranges by the same name; this sprawling bioreserve, featuring pine forests, peaks and verdant meadows, makes hiking and camping one of the most sought-after things to do in Bulgaria.
The famous hiking points of Rila National Park are Musala peak, Rila Lake, Scary Lake, Ivan Vazov Hut and Skakavitsa etc. One can trek, enjoy the surreal natural beauty and even indulge in overnight camping.
Location: Rila Mountains, Bulgaria
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6. Musical fountain show at Park Tsar Simeon
Park Tsar Simeon or Garden of Tsar Simeon is one of the most popular city parks in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. With a sparkling lake at the centre, this city park looks luxuriant and beautiful and makes up for a perfect place for leisure strolls and evening hangouts. Moreover, there are musical fountains, which enhance the charm of Park Tsar Simeon, manifold.
Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, the light and music show of the fountains start at 9:30 in the evening and make the place look stunning. There are wooden benches scattered all around, where you can sit back and relax and watch this spectacular show- one of the free things to do in Bulgaria.
Location: Plovdiv, Bulgaria
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7. Visit to National Museum of History
National Museum of History is one of the most magnificent edifices in Bulgaria, known for its impressive collections of artifacts, manuscripts, sculptures, and paintings. Exhibiting the origin and development of human civilisation and its various stages; the National Museum of History houses more than 650,000 artefacts, potteries, gold and silver coins, mosaics and jewelries.
To comprehend the glorious history and heritage of the country, a visit to this museum can be one of the best things to do in Sofia, Bulgaria.
Location: ul. Vitoshko lale 16, Sofia 1618, Bulgaria
Opening hours: 9:30 am to 5 pm
Tickets: INR 408/person
8. Shopping in Vitosha Boulevard- Of heart-warming retail therapy
Retail therapy is an integral part of any holiday. Taking a stroll in Vitosha Boulevard- the main shopping street allows you to get indulged in alluring things to do in Sofia, Bulgaria. Lined with renowned and posh brand outlets, Vitosha Boulevard dazzles in the evening and buzzing pubs, restaurants and night clubs on both sides of the road, make the place all the more happening.
Moreover, one can also admire the architectural beauty of renowned city monuments like Sofia Palace of Justice and Sveta Nedelya Orthodox Church, located on Vitosha Boulevard.
Location: Sofia, Bulgaria
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9. Visit The Most Amazing Dolphinarium
Overlooking the Black Sea, this is one the most unique tourist attractions in Varna. Located in the Seaside Garden, this place was inaugurated in 1984 and have gained tremendous popularity in no time. Showcasing amazing dolphin shows, music and dance performances, acrobats and swimming skills, this place remains as a pure wonderland for people of all age groups.
Other than watching this marvelous show, one can also swim, play, and cuddle with dolphins too. Isn’t it one of the most exciting things to do in Bulgaria?
Location: Салтанат 43, 9010 Saltanat, Varna, Bulgaria
Opening hours: 9 am to 5 pm
Tickets: INR 700/person
10. Watch a play at Ivan Vazov National Theatre
As one of the most eminent landmarks of the city, Ivan Vazov National Theatre opened in 1907. This is the national theatre of Bulgaria and hosts amazing stage plays and theatre acting workshops, throughout the year.
Not only the neoclassical building, its façade, arches, colourful glasses and main doorway look astounding, but the classic and modern plays, hosted every evening allures tourists and locals very much.
Location: “Dyakon Ignatii” 5, 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria
Opening hours: 7 pm to 10: 30 pm
11. Bird and dolphin watching from Kalikara
Kalikara is a narrow coastal strip in Dobruja region of Bulgaria. It is a vertical cliff, overlooking the Black Sea and the age-old medieval fortress of Kalikara stands tall on the cliff top. Kalikara is a nature reserve and one can watch numerous cormorants and dolphins from there.
Along with dolphins and cormorants, one can also watch endangered migratory birds like lesser grey shrike and saker falcon- making the place a heaven for ornithologists.
Location: Kavarna, Bulgaria
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12. Free Sofia city tours
This is perhaps the most amusing thing to do in Sofia, Bulgaria, for free. Many NGOs and non-profit Government bodies organize free city tours in Sofia, for tourists, thrice a day at 10 am, 11 am and 6 pm. These are city sightseeing tours with English speaking guides who takes you through the streets of Sofia, showing eminent buildings and monuments like Statue of Sofia, Palace of Justice, Court of Arms, Sveta Nedelya Church, Sofia Synagogue and Church of St. Petika etc.
If you are travelling on a shoestring budget and wish to explore the city, avail these guided tours and make fond memories of Bulgaria vacation.
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There are ample things to do in Bulgaria. City tour, museum visits, water sports, hiking, and shopping, everything is there on the list. Make sure you shortlist them before finalizing the itinerary for your Bulgaria trip..
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Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Bulgaria
What is there to do in Bulgaria?
Bulgaria is a beautiful country and offers unique tourist attractions. There are many things to do in Bulgaria that include exploring the tourist places and treating the explorer within.
Is it safe to travel to Bulgaria?
Yes, Bulgaria is a very safe place to visit. The people of Bulgaria are very hospitable and you can stroll out during night without any hassle.
What is there to do in Bulgaria in winter?
Bulgaria is a very beautiful place to visit in winter. Some of the top things to do there in winter season are skiing, snowboarding, shopping at Christmas market, and more.
What is Bulgaria famous for?
Bulgaria is known as the Land of Roses. There is a rose valley in Bulgaria that produces most of the world’s rose oil. Apart from that, it is also known for its natural beauty.
What do they eat in Bulgaria?
Pork, chicken, seafood and fish are eaten in Bulgaria. Apart from that, lamb is used while cooking traditional dishes.
Do I need a visa to go to Bulgaria?
Yes, you need a visa to go to Bulgaria. However, Indian citizens do not require it for visiting Bulgaria.
Do they speak English in Bulgaria?
Yes, Bulgarians speak English. Twenty-three percent of its population speaks English. Others use Italian, spanish and other languages.
Does it snow in Bulgaria?
Yes, it does snow in Bulgaria. Snowfall in Bulgaria begins at the end of the month of December and goes on till March.
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A book lover and fun-loving, overtly emotional mom with a wanderlust soul, Sukanya has completed her Master Degree in Geography and currently perusing her passion for writing as a profession. Nothing detoxes her more than trying new recipes and travelling to offbeat places is ultimate Therapy for her.
